New Zealand Opens EOI Phase for Online Casino Licences with Stringent Background Checks

New Zealand has initiated the expression of interest (EOI) phase for online casino operators, marking a pivotal step in its shift from an unregulated market dominated by offshore providers to a licensed framework. The Department of Internal Affairs has outlined requirements including multi-jurisdictional criminal record checks for all key personnel and a minimum capital of NZ$7.5 million per operator.

Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden stressed that the market's design prioritises balance and consumer safety over pure revenue generation. The checks mandated go beyond those in established jurisdictions such as Malta, the UK, and the Netherlands, reflecting a cautious regulatory approach.

Licence Caps and Enforcement Powers

A maximum of 15 online casino licences will be issued, with one licence per platform or brand. No single operator can hold significant influence over more than three licences. Initial licences are valid for up to three years, with a one-time renewal of up to five years.

To combat the black market, regulators will gain enhanced tools including takedown notices and fines of up to NZ$5 million for unlawful advertising. These penalties apply not only to operators but also to entities that publish or arrange illegal advertisements on their behalf.

Application Process and Documentation

The EOI phase closes on 14 August 2026. Only operators with an accepted EOI may proceed to the auction stage for licence allocation. Required submission documents include entity documentation, ownership and management structure diagrams, capital sources, and certified credit checks. Each key officer must also provide certified photo ID, a criminal record check, and a certified credit check.

Jarrod True, Director at True Legal, noted that the long-term success of the framework hinges on its ability to channel players from the unlicensed market into the regulated ecosystem. He emphasised that while the new regime introduces robust licensing and enforcement, the core challenge remains ensuring consumers choose licensed operators.

Interested parties can submit questions via the Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS) portal until 5pm on 31 July, with responses due from the Department of Internal Affairs by 5pm on 5 August.